9 Best Pickleball Paddles Review and Buying Guide – Be a Pickleball Winner!

By
reviewed
Reviewed by
Last updatedLast updated: November 04, 2024
Rec Room Pick is reader-supported. We may earn a commission through products purchased using links on this page. Learn more about our process here

Pickleball has become a highly popular sport in recent years because it’s very easy to learn how to play while being incredibly entertaining at the same time. Whether you are brand new at pickleball or a veteran player, choosing the best pickleball paddle can help improve your technique and get the most out of the game.

We reviewed dozens of the best pickleball paddles on the market and found the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle to be the best option for beginners and experienced players alike. This paddle offers superior ball control and is easy to handle at the same time. We also gathered and reviewed seven other popular pickleball paddles that all offer superior quality for all types of users.

Our research team spent many hours researching the best pickleball paddles out there, taking into account various features that make them suitable for beginner players or veterans. We looked at factors such as weight, ease of use, durability, and grip size. The surface and core materials the paddles are made from are also important, and we selected paddles that offer a good balance between features and price. You can find the results of our research in the comparison table below, which is completed by in-depth reviews for each of the paddles. A buying guide at the very end helps you make an informed choice and help you how to choose the best pickleball paddle.

If you are looking to up your game, and get more practice check out our review of the best pickleball machines and best pickleball nets.

Top 8 Pickleball Paddles Reviews 2024

1.

ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball PaddleEditor's Choice

Features
  • Average weight: 8.1 oz
  • Paddle width: 8-1/8 in
  • Grip size: 4-1/4 in
  • Core material: Nomex honeycomb
  • Surface material: Graphite

More features:  variety of colors, large sweet spot area

The ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is one of the most commonly seen paddles on the courts and the reason behind its popularity is its versatility. This almost iconic paddle is highly recognizable thanks to the Z on the front and is approved by USAPA for tournament play. One of the first things that you will notice when you pick up this pickleball paddle it is how wide it is. At 8-1/8 in., the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is larger than many other of the paddles we reviewed. Featuring a nomex honeycomb core and a graphite surface material, this paddle puts a great effect to your shots. The large sweet spot area makes it ideal for those who’re looking for a paddle that makes it the game easy to learn for beginners.

Because of its nomex core, the paddle is rather lightweight, especially when compared with its composite counterpart. The paddle is very popular among players because it has more “pop” than other of the models we looked at. This means that the amount of force the paddle absorbs is not too high, so the ball bounces right off the face. The ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is an ideal choice for beginners who want to get started on the right foot with pickleball. It is a bit expensive than other models marketed for beginners, but its versatility is highly worth it.

Why are we impressed?

  • Suitable for beginners
  • Highly versatile
  • Large sweet spot

What negatives must you be aware of?

  • Grip quality could be improved
RELATED: 5 Best Onix Pickleball Paddles – Get More Power and Control Over the Ball!
2.

SLK by Selkirk Pickleball PaddlesEditors Choice Paddle Set

Features
  • Paddles: 2
  • Balls: 4
  • Net: not included
  • Paddle construction: Graphite + Fiberglass
  • Paddle dimensions: 15.67 x 7.8 inches
  • Paddle weight: 7.5 oz

This set of Pickleball paddles is great for players who want a lightweight and sturdy paddle that can deliver power and control.

The SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles features a Multilayer Face Technology, combining the power of Graphite with the control of Fiberglass.

This combination gives the player superior performance, allowing them to easily make quick shots with precision and accuracy.

The paddle dimensions are 15.67 x 7.8 inches, with a Lightweight design of just 7.5 ounces and an Ultra Cushion Grip for comfortable handling.

It also features a Honeycomb Core, providing extra rigidness to the paddle while reducing vibration and shock.

The paddles are approved for tournament play in the US, as well as community play in the Green Zone .

Overall, these Pickleball paddles provide great performance and durability. The combination of lightweight design and superior control makes them perfect for players of all levels.

With the addition of 4 pickleball balls, a rigid carry bag, and ready for tournament play, the SLK by Selkirk Pickleball Paddles are a great choice.

Why did it make our list?

  • Lightweight paddles for superior control and power
  • Multilayer Face Technology for improved performance
  • Ready for tournament play
  • Honeycomb Core for extra rigidity and less vibration
  • Includes 4 pickleball balls and a rigid carry bag

What is not ideal about it?

  • Not the best option for experienced players
Features
  • Average weight: 8.3 oz
  • Paddle width: 7-1/2 in
  • Grip size: 4-1/4 in
  • Core material: Polypropylene Honeycomb Core
  • Surface material: Carbon Abrasion Surface

The JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle has the perfect combination of features for a great pickleball paddle.

The average weight of 8.3 oz makes it light enough to move around quickly on the court, while providing enough power for aggressive shots. It has a 7-1/2 inch paddle width, perfect for generating spin and controlling the ball.

The grip size of 4-1/4 inches ensures a comfortable fit in your hand. The Hybrid-Ply Technology provides top performance and the Response Polypropylene Honeycomb Core reduces vibration, providing a comfortable feel with every shot.

The Carbon Abrasion Surface gives you excellent spin control, especially when playing with topspin shots. The Aero curve of the paddle provides more swing speed, allowing you to hit powerful shots with maximum velocity.

The elongated handle means that two-handed shots can be played easily and precisely. The Anti-slip grip ensures you have maximum control when playing and the Edge-shield protects the core of the paddle from accidental damage.

Last but not least, the paddle is backed by one of the best Pickleball Players, Ben Johns, making it an even more desirable choice for pickleball players.

With all of these features, the JOOLA Ben Johns Hyperion Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for a great pickleball paddle. It provides the perfect balance of power and control, allowing you to perform at your best in any match.

Why is it special?

  • Lightweight for agile play
  • Hybrid-Ply Technology for top performance
  • Response Polypropylene Honeycomb Core for reduced vibration
  • Carbon Abrasion Surface for spin control
  • Aero curve for extra swing speed
  • Elongated handle for playing two-handed shots
  • Anti-slip grip for maximum control
  • Edge-shield protection for Paddle core

What are the flaws?

  • Expensive compared to other paddles
4.

Onix Evoke Pro Pickleball PaddleBest Polypropylene Pickleball Paddle

Features
  • Average weight: 7.8 oz
  • Paddle width: 8.3 in
  • Grip size: 4-1/4 in
  • Core material: polypropylene honeycomb
  • Surface material: composite

More features: multiple color options to choose from

The Onix Evoke Pro Pickleball Paddle is a model that truly stands out from the crowd. It boasts of a polypropelene honeycomb core and a composite surface and provides enhanced control for both beginners and advanced players.

Because it has a composite face, this paddle is a quiet one, so you may want to consider it if you’re looking for equipment that you can use at communities where there are noise restrictions on paddles in place.

Onix Sports is a well-known company in the world of paddles, and this high-quality paddle is proof their reputation is deserved. The Onix Evoke Pro Pickleball Paddle has an oversized shape with a width of 7.9 in, and a handle that is longer than that you may expect to find on a pickleball paddle. The length of the handle may remind you more of a tennis racket, which is something many players would actually prefer because it provides them with excellent grip and better control.

The Onix Evoke Pro Pickleball Paddle is available in multiple colors and features prominent graphics that make it instantly recognizable. Some of the users who reviewed it mentioned that its look might not be for everyone because it attracts instant attention, but overall, this is one of the best quiet pickleball paddles with long handle that you can currently find on the market.

Why did it make our list?

  • Unique shapes enhance control
  • Great for those who transition from tennis
  • Quiet

What is not ideal about it?

  • Expensive
5.

Gamma Classic 1.0 Pickleball PaddlesBest for Control

Features
  • Average weight: 7.8 oz
  • Paddle width: 8.25 in
  • Grip size: 4-1/8 in
  • Core material: Aramid honeycomb
  • Surface material: Graphite

More features:  carbon fiber hitting surface

Manufactured by Gamma Classic, a name that is highly recognizable in the world of pickleball, the Gamma Classic 1.0 Pickleball Paddle comes with a reinforced live periphery frame, a type of structure that does a great job at increasing the durability of the edges and removing dead spots. The aramid honeycomb core provides this paddle with a very solid feel, and most of the users who tested it mentioned that they liked the level of control the paddle offers them during a game.

The contoured grip of the Gamma Classic 1.0 Pickleball Paddle makes a world of difference when it comes to comfort during playing. The stitched ribbing and perforations contribute to the gripping power, but the handle also does a great job when it comes to absorbing moisture. This is a very good feature for players whose hands tend to get too sweaty when they play. Moreover, the cushioned surface of the handle makes it feel great in your hand.

The Gamma Classic 1.0 Pickleball Paddle features a flush fit bumper that can increase the hitting area by 30 percent. This means that you get more room to hit the ball without having to worry about the edge guard getting in the way.

We liked this paddle because it is an ideal choice for players who like to use speed techniques and control players. It is also a good choice for players who are on the lookout for a lightweight paddle with a highly comfortable handle.

Why did it make our list?

  • Fast and lightweight
  • Durable design
  • Comfortable grip

What is not ideal about it?

  • The sweet spot is rather average
6.

Selkirk Prime S2 Pickleball PaddleBest Intermediate Pickleball Paddle

Features
  • Average weight: 7.4-7.8 oz
  • Paddle width: 8 in
  • Grip size: 4.25 in
  • Core material: Polypropylene X4 Core
  • Surface material: FiberFlex fiberglass

More features:  the largest sweet spot and surface area of all Selkirk paddle shapes

Selkirk is a well-known name in the world of pickleball paddles and the Selkirk Prime S2 Pickleball Paddle has the largest surface area and sweet spot in their entire range. This paddle is a suitable choice for players of all skill levels and play styles. The paddle has an exceptional build quality and sports a polypropylene X4 core and a FiberFlex fiberglass surface. One of the main benefits of this paddle is the fact that it has a large sweet spot while also offering lots of control for beginners and advanced users alike.

We liked this paddle because it is designed for durability and performance, while being suitable for beginners and professionals alike. The large face makes it easy to get the sweet spot, and overall the paddle has received lots of praise from users for the consistency it delivers during gameplay. The contour grip of the handle delivers a balanced swing-action. With the Selkirk Prime S2 Pickleball Paddle you can expect to get extra power doubled by a smooth movement. This paddle is USAPA tested and approved for tournament play and comes in a selection of colors to suit all tastes. While it may not be the perfect choice out there for heavy hitters, the Selkirk paddle provides a good level of comfort that will improve your playing technique, especially if you are a beginner.

What stands out?

  • Durable
  • Very comfortable
  • USAPA tested and approved

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Not suitable for heavy hitters
7.

Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball PaddleBest for Beginners

Features
  • Average weight: 7.5 – 8 oz
  • Paddle width: 7 1/2 in
  • Grip size: 4 1/4 in
  • Core material: Polypropylene
  • Surface material: Fiberglass

The Franklin Sports Pro Pickleball Paddle provides the perfect combination of power and control for any pickleball player.

With two sizes to choose from and an average weight between 7.5 and 8 ounces, the Franklin paddle is great for all skill levels.

The maxgrit technology reduces vibrations in the paddle and increases control. The polypropylene core helps players to generate more power in their shots, while the fiberglass surface layer provides improved accuracy with each shot.

With all these features combined, this paddle is approved by the USAPA for tournament play and meets all their requirements. Players can rely on this great paddle for a consistent performance in their game.

If you are looking for a paddle that offers power and control, the Franklin Sports Pro is an excellent choice. It will provide you with the ideal combination of shots and accuracy needed to dominate in the game of pickleball.

What are its best features?

  • 7.5 to 8 ounces weight provides the perfect balance of power and control
  • MaxGrit technology to reduce vibrations
  • Polypropylene paddle core for playing shots with power
  • Fiberglass surface layer for improved control
  • USAPA approved for tournament play

What could be improved?

  • Handle may not be comfortable for some players
8.

Rally NX Graphite Pickleball PaddleMost Durable Pickleball Paddle

Features
  • Average weight: 7.7 oz
  • Paddle width: 8-1/8 in
  • Grip size: 4-1/8 in
  • Core material: Nomex honeycomb
  • Surface material: Vinyl decal over graphite

More features: USAPA/IFP approved for tournament play

If you’re looking for a highly durable pickleball paddle, the Rally NX Graphite Pickleball Paddle would be an excellent choice. This paddle is also a great option for players who are interested in getting a notable increase in speed. Moreover, the practical dimensions of this paddle make it suitable for any player, mostly because of the small circumference of the grip.

Users who tested and reviewed the Rally NX Graphite Pickleball Paddle especially enjoyed the great balance of power and control this paddle offers, together with a versatile design that suits most playing styles. While the core of this paddle, made from nomex honeycomb, may be a little less responsive than that of other paddles we reviewed, this Rally NX paddle provides a good balance between control and power.

This is not a great paddle for those with large hands, mostly because of the aforementioned small circumference of the grip. It does, however, make it very easy to switch hands while you play. Even though the Rally NX Graphite Pickleball Paddle has a couple of limitations, it offers a good experience for anyone, especially if you’re not a power player. It makes great option for those who are only starting with pickleball and are looking to get a paddle that is affordable yet durable at the same time.

What makes it stand out?

  • Comfortable grip
  • Durable core
  • Ideal for beginners

Which disadvantages must you keep in mind?

  • Not great for players with large hands
Features
  • Average weight: 8.1 oz
  • Paddle width: 7 7/8 in
  • Grip size: 4 1/4 in
  • Core material: Polypropylene Honeycomb
  • Surface material: Fiberglass

The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle has a lightweight 8.1 oz average weight which is perfect for experienced players who need a responsive paddle.

This paddle features an optimized tubular core which provides plenty of power and control as well as a composite hitting surface that offers plenty of spin.

The 7 7/8 inch paddle width and 4 1/4 inch grip size offer enhanced control while the ergonomic grip ensures a comfortable and secure hold.

The Polypropylene Honeycomb core provides plenty of responsiveness while the fiberglass hitting surface ensures maximum spin potential.

The overall quality of this paddle makes it an ideal choice for experienced players who need a reliable responsive paddle with plenty of power and spin.

The lightweight design and comfortable grip also make this paddle perfect for long rallies.

The HEAD Radical Elite Pickleball Paddle is a great choice for players who need a reliable, lightweight paddle that offers plenty of power and spin.

What stands out?

  • Lightweight at 8.1 oz
  • Optimized tubular core
  • Composite hitting surface for maximum spin potential
  • 7 7/8 inch paddle width and 4 1/4 inch grip size
  • Polypropylene honeycomb core
  • Ergonomic grip for comfortable and secure hold

What cons did we manage to find?

  • Not the most affordable option compared to other paddles on the market

Things to Consider

Whether you have just taken up pickleball or are a veteran of the sport choosing a new pickleball paddle requires some careful research. You may look for a budget-friendly paddle to help you get the hang of the game, or you may want to get a paddle that is designed with control players in mind.
What you need to consider before parting with your money is the fact that finding the right paddle depends on your playing style. There are, of course, multiple other factors to take into account when shopping for the best pickleball paddle, and this buying guide provides you with all the information you need to make the correct choice.

Choosing the best pickleball paddle

9 Best Pickleball Paddles Review and Buying Guide -  Be a Pickleball Winner!Before moving to the characteristics you should look for when buying a pickleball paddle, it is essential to think about some basic things. First, consider essential elements such as the weight of the paddle, the way the grip suits your hands, and the shape of the paddle, to make sure it suits you preferred paying style. Some of the most important aspects to further consideration include the material the core and the surface of the paddle are made of, as well as the accuracy and extra features of the paddle.

Average weight – type of paddle

The average weight of a pickleball paddle is vital because it determines the way the paddle feels in your hands. Paddles range in weight from 6 to 14 ounces, with most of the ones we reviewed being in the 708 ounces range. Besides having an impact on the way the paddle feels in your hand, its weight will also determine how you can swing the paddle and control the ball while playing.

Heavier paddles generally give you less control over the ball than lighter ones, but as a rule of thumb, it is advisable to opt for a paddle with an in-between weight, especially if you are a beginner. This will allow you to control the ball the way you wish.

Paddle width

The width of a pickleball paddle has an influence on the way you are able to hit the sweet spot. According to most standard rules across clubs, the width should not be more than 24 inches. Our editor’s choice, the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a wide pickleball paddle.

Grip size

9 Best Pickleball Paddles Review and Buying Guide -  Be a Pickleball Winner!Make sure the pickleball paddle you choose has a suitable grip circumference for your hand. Playing with a paddle that doesn’t fit well in your hand is likely to be uncomfortable and have a negative impact on your results. For example, if you’re playing with a paddle with a size grip that is too large for you, you may be prone to elbow injuries over time, not to mention you might have a hard time making contact with the ball while you play. You can determine the grip size you need by measuring your hands. As a rule of thumb, you may be suited for 4-1/8” grips or 4-1/4” grips, as it is for example by Pro-lite Titan Black Diamond Pickleball Paddle, if you are between 5’3” and 5’8” tall.

Core material

The main materials you may encounter for the core of pickleball paddles include wood, graphite, and composite.
Some of the most common paddles are made of wood, and they are generally the most affordable. They might also be rather heavy, and this means that you may need to sacrifice a bit of your control when playing with a wood paddle.

Composite paddles such as the Selkirk Sport 20P XL Epic Polymer Composite Pickleball Paddle are becoming more and more popular. They are constructed from aa composite core and a carbon fiber or fiberglass surface. The composite core itself may be made from aluminum and polymer, and rigid nylon, also known as Nomex may also be used.

Finally, graphite paddles, like Gamma Classic 1.0 Pickleball Paddles, are lightweight and generally more expensive than other models. They are the preferred choice of professional players, and they may feature a core made of a Nomex honeycomb core, polymer, or aluminum, like the Onix Evoke Pro Pickleball Paddle model features.

Surface material

9 Best Pickleball Paddles Review and Buying Guide -  Be a Pickleball Winner!Besides the core material, you also need to take into account the material the surface of the paddle is made of. Carbon fiber and fiberglass are often used on high-quality paddles, and the texture has an impact on the spin you can get for your shots. Carbon fiber surfaces are generally the best option for control players because they don’t generate as much pop as fiberglass ones. If you’re a heavy hitter, you may prefer fiberglass surfaces instead.

Accuracy

To get accurate shots, you need to make sure the pickleball paddle you choose is the correct weight and has the right grip size.
You should also determine whether you need your shots to be precise or whether you want to be able to drive powerfully because you generally can’t do both well with the same paddle. A paddle with a good balance is one that is not too lightweight, but not too heavy at the same time.

Shape

The shape of the paddle is also important for your playing style, but also for your comfort during the game. All paddles are rectangular, but some may be wider than others. The shape of the paddle determines the way you hit the sweet spot. The most common shape of pickleball paddle is wide and measures approximately 8 inches wide by 15¾ inches long.

Official regulations are standardized among clubs, and oversized paddles may not be USAPA approved, but for example ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle, being one of the widest models, is USAPA standardized. So just keep that nuance in mind if you want to opt for a more non-conventional shape and read the specs carefully before making a purchase.

Extra features

9 Best Pickleball Paddles Review and Buying Guide -  Be a Pickleball Winner!The sweet spot is a term that you will hear a lot if you take up pickleball. This is a term that refers to the best possible shot you can get when you hit the ball directly with the center of the paddle. Pickleball paddles with an easy to hit sweet spot are recommended for beginners, because it can greatly help them with the accuracy of the shots, the best model for that is without no doubt Selkirk Prime S2 Pickleball Paddle.

Price range

The price range is a wide one when it comes to quality pickleball paddles, with graphite ones generally being the most expensive and wood ones the cheapest. You should expect to pay at least $100 for a high-quality paddle, and as much as $150 for a high-end graphite one. If you only want to have a bit of fun and don’t want to invest in an expensive paddle, you can get a mid-range composite model for up to $50.

FAQ

 
 

Paddles designed for the indoor are generally quieter to conform to noise regulations and maintain a level of comfort for the players. As a rule of thumb, there are no paddles specifically designed for indoors and outdoors playing, but balls are made specifically for one environment or another.

A rough surface on a pickleball paddle, such as that given by graphite, helps to counteract the power you’re hitting the ball with, offering you better control. Smooth surfaces are a better idea for heavy hitters, but if you want control and accuracy, rough surfaces are your friend.

The majority of pickleball paddles have a core that simulates a honeycomb structure. This is what the composite looks like, so it’s a pattern. The honeycomb is made of a composite such as aluminum, polymer, or nomex. The honeycomb design works well for precision and accuracy in a pickleball paddle.

Wrapping It Up

9 Best Pickleball Paddles Review and Buying Guide -  Be a Pickleball Winner!

Our editor’s choice, the ONIX Graphite Z5 Pickleball Paddle offers a good balance between durability and ease of use, which makes it ideal for beginner and advanced players alike. We liked its large sweet spot and the overall well-built construction, which makes it a pleasure to handle.

The Pro-lite Titan Black Diamond Pickleball Paddle came in second in our top. This is an excellent option for those who are looking for the best pickleball paddle to help them improve their spinning technique.

Finally, players who would prefer a polypropylene pickleball paddle may want to have a look at our third choice, the Onix Evoke Pro Pickleball Paddle. This paddle is great for any level player and can help you transform your playing style.

But no matter which pickleball paddle you decide to buy, make sure it is USAPA approved if you want to use it to compete in tournaments.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published.